Republic flight returns, lands at Denver International Airport after blowing tire on take-off

DENVER — A Republic Airlines flight from Denver to Kansas City landed safely on Saturday after it was forced to return to Denver International Airport after one of its tires blew on takeoff.

Airport officials say the plane circled to burn off fuel before making a successful landing at 11 a.m.

The Bombardier Q400 was carrying 71 passengers and a crew of four, flying for United Express, Republic Airways spokesman Scott Thien said.

A video taken by a passenger showed passengers leaning forward against seats while a warning blared, telling them to "Brace, brace, heads down, stay down!" until the plane came to a stop and passengers began applauding.

The video also showed a tire shredding as the plane touched the ground.

The plane was kept on the runway until passengers could board buses. The passengers boarded a different flight and continued to Kansas City.